Easter children's events set for this weekend at Heritage State Park

The RepublicanThe Easter Bunny is expected to visit the Holyoke Merry-Go-Round on Sunday afternoon.
The Easter fun gets hopping in Holyoke on Saturday at Holyoke Heritage State Park and the Holyoke Merry-Go-Round with a good old-fashioned game of hide and seek.

More than 3,500 eggs will be hidden throughout the park and sought after by kids ranging in age from 1 to 10 as part of the Holyoke Parks and Recreation Department’s annual Egg Hunt on the green.

Peter LeClerc, recreation supervisor, said there will be three separate egg hunts throughout the morning beginning at 10 a.m. for toddlers, 10:30 a.m. for kids 4-6 years old, and those 7 and up setting off at 11:15 a.m.

“We’re going to have lots of fun waiting at the park for the kids. The weather looks great and really warm for the weekend,” said LeClerc, noting the event traditionally brings people from all over the region to downtown Holyoke.

“The Easter Bunny will be there to get things rolling and there will also be pony rides, face painting and a balloon artist to entertain our egg hunters,” he added.

Parents are advised to bring bags or Easter baskets for the children to collect the eggs they find.

LeClerc said the eggs will be filled with candy and some lucky youngsters will also find prize slips in their eggs which they can turn in for gifts such as stuffed animals, hula hoops and more.

“We’re also going to have about 500 gift bags to give away filled with goodies such as candy treats, pinwheels and other surprises,” LeClerc said.

As part of the Parks and Recreation Department’s Easter celebration on Saturday, the Holyoke Merry-Go-Round will open early at 10 a.m. But, it’s on Eastern Sunday when all the fun begins at the antique carousel when it opens its doors at noon.

“In the heyday of Mountain Park where our cherished carousel made its home, the popular amusement park would open for the season on Easter weekend,” said Angela Wright, coordinator, Holyoke Merry-Go-Round.

“So, it’s only fitting that we keep our doors open on Easter to entertain families with a ride on our carousel and some extra special fun,” she added.

The “extra special fun” includes a visit from the Easter Bunny from noon to 3 p.m. who will pose for pictures, give out yummy treats, and take rides with guests on the antique carousel.

And, anyone wearing their Easter finery, include rabbit ears or whiskers will receive a half-price ride.

The Holyoke Merry-Go-Round will also open on Good Friday, from noon to 4 p.m.